Past officers of the Saranac Community Club were recognized at an open house and ceremony that took place Tuesday.

Former president Don Benjamin, former secretary Donna Smit and former treasurer Jackie Bowen were thanked for their service and presented with a small memento.

Saranac Community Club member Ryan Hesche said the trio have been part of the group for a long time and are the reason the club still exists.

"There were times the community club would have stopped without them," said Hesche.

Benjamin, who recently stepped down as club president, said he felt honored to be recognized at the open house.

"I think it was a very nice thing for them to do," he said, adding he has cherished the opportunity to meet new people and become involved through the club.

Although he is no longer the club's president, he said he will still be involved and feels confident in the future of the club due to the newer, younger members that are bringing fresh ideas and enthusiasm to the table.

"I think the future is there to challenge, to grow," Benjamin added.

Hesche said the open house also was an opportunity for the club members to discuss what they have already done, their future goals and what projects they are working on that need extra assistance.

"We want to grow and get more people of the community involved," he added.

Through a number events, including Girl's Night Out, Saranac Bridge Festival and an expo planned for the spring season, Hesche said awareness of the club is spreading. The use of social media and a web page also helps, he added.

"We're not a chamber of commerce, but we'd like to be like one," Hesche said.

The club is always looking for new members to bring a variety of ideas and skill sets to the group, and the cost is only an annual fee of $20, he said.

For more information about the Saranac Community Club, visit www.saranacmicc.org or find them on Facebook.